From Poultry-Stuffed Lollies to Patriotic Gelatin Goodies

Rather than being the fifth person to bring potato salad to your family potluck, impress your peers with one of these festive Fourth of July recipes. Whether you are a budding chef or a microwave master, there is a recipe suited to your skill and commitment level.

While there are many ways to celebrate Fourth of July, cookouts and potluck dinners are probably one of the most popular choices around. If you have a big family, it's best to have all your guests bring a dish to share, rather than slaving over the kitchen all day. Deck your backyard in red, white and blue and hand out a few patriotic drinks to kick this party off.

If you plan to have more of a cocktail-style mingling party, suggest bringing finger and bite-sized foods to avoid awkward plate balancing -- who could resist a chicken pot pie popper? Once the night dies down, cuddle up by a campfire, set off the fireworks and toast a few s'mores up -- or stuff those into a cookie for a decadent dessert mash-up.